For Him, With Him — A Celebration of Men’s Strength, Humanity & Hope

Today, let’s begin with gratitude. To the men who show up—every single day—with resilience in their hearts and quiet determination in their steps. To the fathers who sacrifice silently, the brothers who protect unconditionally, the mentors who guide with wisdom, and the friends who stand beside us through every season of life.

I speak to you today not just as Prakash Arya—entrepreneur, author, trainer, mentor—but as a man who carries a deep, unwavering passion for supporting other men. Over the years, through my workshops, seminars, motivational talks, and flagship courses, I have stood beside countless men—clients, friends, family, and professionals—to guide them, to hold their hands, and to remind them of their worth.

This International Men’s Day, under the theme “Supporting Men and Boys,” I want to address something that is often hidden, rarely spoken about, but painfully real. We live in a society riddled with preconceived notions: men are supposed to be unbreakable, always providers, and always strong. But what about when they feel weak, lost, or on the verge of breaking down?

The Invisible Burden: The Reality of Being a Man Today

Walk through any city, and you’ll see signs, policies, and even social messaging celebrating women’s empowerment—and rightly so. “Reservation for Women” is written in public spaces, in education, and in transport. These are important gains for gender equality. But let’s also reflect: when it comes to men, do we demand that he be heard when he is in pain? Do we question society’s assumption that men must suffer in silence?

If a man cries too often, he’s judged and told he’s weak. If he admits to mental stress, he’s shamed for not being “tough enough.” And when things spiral out of control—when workplace discrimination, financial pressure, or abuse come crashing in—many men feel they have no one to turn to.

A Crisis That Cannot Be Ignored

Globally, the reality is alarming. According to the WHO, in 2019, men died by suicide at more than twice the rate of women. Over 523,000 men died by suicide compared to about 235,000 women. For every woman who dies by suicide, roughly two men do.

In India, this crisis is equally shocking. As per NCRB reports and public health studies, almost 119,000 men died by suicide in 2021, 2.6 times more than women. Married men are especially vulnerable—burdened by family pressures, workplace stress, and expectations that leave little room for emotional release.

But we still aren’t talking about this enough. And silence, tragically, becomes deadly.

Hidden Harassment: The Other Side of the Story

We must also confront the fact that men, too, can be victims of harassment, discrimination, and legal prejudice.

There are reports of men being emotionally and legally victimized under dowry and domestic violence misuse, with little support available.

False accusations can devastate a man’s reputation, career, and mental health.

Systems meant to protect are often not gender-neutral, leaving many men without a voice.

This is not to negate the importance of women’s rights—it is about justice for all. Let’s ensure that while no woman feels unsafe, no man feels unheard.

Why We Must Talk About This, Openly

As someone deeply committed to men's growth and healing, I believe in creating spaces where:

Boys are taught emotional intelligence—not just how to be strong, but how to be human.

Men are encouraged to express themselves, to seek help, and to support one another without fear of judgment.

Mentorship and guidance are seen as necessities, not luxuries.

That’s why my work—my courses, talks, and mentoring—is committed to helping men break free from mental cages and societal silence. Every man deserves a chance to breathe, grow, and be genuinely supported.

An Invitation: Let’s Support, Not Judge

This International Men’s Day, I invite you — man or woman — to reflect:

Who is the man in your life that might be silently struggling?

When was the last time you looked into a friend's eyes and said, “It’s okay to feel. I’m here.”?

Can we challenge outdated beliefs and help create a more balanced, compassionate society?

For Him. With Him.

To every boy conditioned to “be strong” before he was ready.

To every man told to “take it like a man” when he needed a hug.

To every father, friend, son, or colleague hiding his heartbreak behind a smile —

You deserve support. You deserve space to heal.

May this International Men’s Day be a turning point —

A day we see men not just as protectors, but as people.

Let’s celebrate the laughter they share, the burdens they carry, the love they give, and the dreams they chase. Today, and every day, we say: You matter. Your story matters. Because when we stand for him, and walk with him, we begin to build a world where men don’t just survive — they live, thrive, and are finally seen.

Together, for him, and forever with him, let’s build a world where men don’t just bear the weight but rise with wings. Happy International Men’s Day.

With hope and brotherhood,

Prakash Arya